AGILE project: Kogi targets 728 schools in major education revamp

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

In a sweeping move to reposition its education sector, the Kogi State Government has commenced the renovation of over 700 public schools,under the Adolescent Girls Initiative For Learning and Empowerment (AGILE).

This ambitious plan signals a renewed commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and modern learning environments.

‎Speaking at the launch of the project at the Government House in Lokoja on Thursday, the Kogi State Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu said the launch of the project was a significant milestone in the educational transformation of the State.

‎Salifu reiterated the administration’s commitment to prioritising education, stating that no nation thrives without investing in education.

‎”Today’s event is not merely ceremonial; it’s a clear demonstration of this administration’s resolve to invest in the future of our State through education.

‎We recognise that no meaningful development can take place without a strong and functional education system, and that system must be supported by infrastructure that is safe, inclusive, and conducive for learning.

‎Across the State, many of our schools have served communities for decades. While they have played their role in shaping lives, the time has come to renew, upgrade, and reposition them to meet the demands of modern education.

‎The renovation of 728 government-owned schools is therefore not just an intervention, it’s a bold statement of intent. It’s a testament that every child in Kogi State deserves a decent place to learn”, the Deputy Governor stated.

‎The State Commissioner of Education, Hon. Wemi Jones in his remarks, said the project demonstrates the government’s zeal at revamping education.

‎Wemi Jones emphasised that no responsive government will fold its hands on matters concerning education, stressing that the present administration in the State was doing all within its reach towards making education better and more affordable.

‎He added that the Ministry has equally received over one point four billion Naira to support exam fees for WAEC and NECO students, a gesture he noted will strengthen educational growth and development.

‎”Let me say at this point that arrangements are also underway to train students for Computer-Based Testing (CBT) exams, with training set to begin soon, bearing in mind that education is a top priority for the government, and the renovation will positively impact on all parts of the State”, the Commissioner stated.

‎The State AGILE Project Coordinator, Comrade Tijani Oricha, said the project aims at boosting learning and teaching,

According to him, the renovation will strengthen school systems and improve learning environments across Kogi State, thereby justifying the Governor’s political will and greater commitment to quality education at all levels.

‎Oricha added that 30 service providers have been selected for 125 schools in order to achieve the objective, particularly aiming at boosting learning and teaching,

“The project will be closely monitored for quality and value, and communities are expected to benefit from the renovation”, he added.

‎In his remarks, the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, commented on the government’s efforts, stressing the importance of investing in girls’ education.